Adult Learning
Linking Theory and Practice
2. Edition July 2025
544 Pages, Hardcover
Wiley & Sons Ltd
A freshly updated and science-based guide for contemporary adult educators
In the newly revised second edition of Adult Learning: Linking Theory and Practice, a team of veteran adult educators delivers an authoritative guide to adult education that is solidly grounded in theory and research while remaining concise and practice oriented. Each chapter is infused with practical applications for instruction you can implement immediately to improve concrete learning outcomes.
The authors cover a variety of topics, including adult learning in the contemporary world, traditional learning theories, andragogy, motivation and learning, and more.
Readers will also find:
* Explorations of the brain and cognitive functioning as it applies to adult learners
* How to adapt and improve the adult learning experience in the digital age
* Learning and reflection activities integrated throughout each chapter
Perfect for master's-level students and practitioners alike, Adult Learning: Linking Theory and Practice is the up-to-date and practical adult education resource that you've been waiting for.
Acknowledgments xix
The Authors xxi
Section 1 the Adult Learning Context 1
1 Introducing Adult Learning: Linking Theory and Practice 3
2 Understanding Adult Learning in Contemporary Social Context and Culture 20
3 Applying Critical Perspectives to Adult Learning in Social Context 53
Section 2 the Adult Educator-- the Who and the Why 91
4 Pursuing a Career in the Adult Education Field 93
5 Becoming an Adult Educator 121
Section 3 the Adult Learner-- the Who 151
6 Understanding Adult Learners' Motivation 153
7 Applying Andragogy-- The Art and Science of Helping Adults Learn 187
8 Valuing Adults' Self- Directedness in Learning 218
Section 4 the Adult Learning Process-- the How 249
9 Connecting Learning and Change in Adulthood 251
10 Experiencing Learning in Adulthood 274
11 Learning for Transformation 307
12 Connecting Neuroscience and Adult Learning 345
Section 5 Developing and Delivering Adult Learning Programs-- the What 389
13 Designing Adult Learning Experiences and Programs 391
14 Designing Effective Online Learning for Adults 427
15 Facilitating Active Adult Learning Programs 463
Name Index 499
Subject Index 509
Monica Fedeli is a Professor and Vice-Rector at the University of Padova, and an expert in the international facilitation of adult education and learning. She is the co-editor of Connecting Adult Learning and Knowledge Management.
Sharan B. Merriam is professor emeritus of adult education and qualitative research at the University of Georgia. For five years, she was co-editor of Adult Education Quarterly, the major research and theory journal in adult education.